Chronic Pain Therapists in Martin County, NC

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Online Therapists

Photo of Heather Ingram, MS, LCMHC, CRC, Counselor
Heather Ingram
Counselor, MS, LCMHC, CRC
Verified Verified
Cary, NC 27513
Waitlist for new clients
Growing up with family members living with mental illness gave me a deeply personal perspective on how important compassionate high quality mental health care is for clients and families. I am passionate about helping adolescents, adults, and families with managing life transitions and coping with change, anxiety and depression, parenting, career issues, burnout, adjustment to disability and chronic illness, substance abuse, stress management, and lasting lifestyle behavioral change. I truly believe you can't heal what you don't feel, and I strive to provide a safe place for processing feelings and emotions.
Growing up with family members living with mental illness gave me a deeply personal perspective on how important compassionate high quality mental health care is for clients and families. I am passionate about helping adolescents, adults, and families with managing life transitions and coping with change, anxiety and depression, parenting, career issues, burnout, adjustment to disability and chronic illness, substance abuse, stress management, and lasting lifestyle behavioral change. I truly believe you can't heal what you don't feel, and I strive to provide a safe place for processing feelings and emotions.
(919) 343-5649 View (919) 343-5649
Photo of Angela S McLean - Resilient Counseling, PLLC, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Resilient Counseling, PLLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Cary, NC 27518
Additionally, Angela works individually with adults experiencing divorce/relationship problems, depression, anxiety/stress, addictions, stress related medical conditions, and chronic pain.
Angela S. McLean, LMFT works with individual clients as well as couples and whole families and specializes in helping people find peace in the midst of constant change and daily chaos. Individual sessions are designed to help clients develop the ability to maintain an inner tranquility that is not easily affected by outside circumstances or pressures. Couples and families work to build a strong foundation and lasting, satisfying relationships. If you are looking for peace within yourself, your marriage, or your home, contact Angela today.
Additionally, Angela works individually with adults experiencing divorce/relationship problems, depression, anxiety/stress, addictions, stress related medical conditions, and chronic pain.
Angela S. McLean, LMFT works with individual clients as well as couples and whole families and specializes in helping people find peace in the midst of constant change and daily chaos. Individual sessions are designed to help clients develop the ability to maintain an inner tranquility that is not easily affected by outside circumstances or pressures. Couples and families work to build a strong foundation and lasting, satisfying relationships. If you are looking for peace within yourself, your marriage, or your home, contact Angela today.
(919) 234-5149 View (919) 234-5149
Photo of Denise Mcknight, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Denise Mcknight
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27615  (Online Only)
As a clinical social worker specializing in grief, loss, and trauma, I understand that navigating difficult emotions can feel overwhelming. My ideal client is someone who has experienced the deep pain of losing a loved one or is struggling with life transitions and seeks a compassionate space to process these feelings. They want to feel heard, understood, and supported in their journey toward healing. Their goals often center around finding a way to honor their grief while learning coping strategies to move forward
As a clinical social worker specializing in grief, loss, and trauma, I understand that navigating difficult emotions can feel overwhelming. My ideal client is someone who has experienced the deep pain of losing a loved one or is struggling with life transitions and seeks a compassionate space to process these feelings. They want to feel heard, understood, and supported in their journey toward healing. Their goals often center around finding a way to honor their grief while learning coping strategies to move forward
(980) 247-4588 View (980) 247-4588
Photo of Megan Lanier, LCMHCA, CRC, Counselor
Megan Lanier
Counselor, LCMHCA, CRC
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27605
I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate (LCMHCA) who provides therapy to adolescents 15+ and adults with a primary focus on anxiety, OCD, phobias, chronic pain, depression, self-esteem, life transitions, and relationship concerns. My goal as a therapist is to help you move from a place of feeling "stuck" to one where you are empowered to do what matters to you even in the midst of life's difficulties!
I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate (LCMHCA) who provides therapy to adolescents 15+ and adults with a primary focus on anxiety, OCD, phobias, chronic pain, depression, self-esteem, life transitions, and relationship concerns. My goal as a therapist is to help you move from a place of feeling "stuck" to one where you are empowered to do what matters to you even in the midst of life's difficulties!
(984) 464-6609 View (984) 464-6609
Photo of Betsy Morton, MEd, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Betsy Morton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MEd, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Holly Springs, NC 27540  (Online Only)
I address issues including death of a loved one, living with /supporting someone who is living with terminal illness.
Welcome! Being human in this world can be tough. My goal as a therapist is to sit with my clients in these difficult times. I provide my clients a relaxed, comfortable, and trusting environment where they can feel heard, seen, and valued. I see it as a great privilege to partner with my clients as they share and explore their stories and experiences. Together, we can navigate what can often feel like an overwhelming world.
I address issues including death of a loved one, living with /supporting someone who is living with terminal illness.
Welcome! Being human in this world can be tough. My goal as a therapist is to sit with my clients in these difficult times. I provide my clients a relaxed, comfortable, and trusting environment where they can feel heard, seen, and valued. I see it as a great privilege to partner with my clients as they share and explore their stories and experiences. Together, we can navigate what can often feel like an overwhelming world.
(984) 213-4939 View (984) 213-4939
Photo of Teresa Cox Mayle, MSRC, LCMHC
Teresa Cox Mayle
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MSRC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Gaston, NC 27832  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My ideal client is a child, adolescent or adult who experiences anxiety, depression or confusion finding the right path.They have experienced trauma or emotional pain from complex life situations, medical issues, career situations, relationships or are overwhelmed by life. They seek guidance from someone with lived experience and special skills to ease their distress and help them find a way out. They need to feel someone cares while they new insights and coping strategies to find peace and move on with their life. They use these new insights and life skills guide them with new confidence through the next life adventure.
My ideal client is a child, adolescent or adult who experiences anxiety, depression or confusion finding the right path.They have experienced trauma or emotional pain from complex life situations, medical issues, career situations, relationships or are overwhelmed by life. They seek guidance from someone with lived experience and special skills to ease their distress and help them find a way out. They need to feel someone cares while they new insights and coping strategies to find peace and move on with their life. They use these new insights and life skills guide them with new confidence through the next life adventure.
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Photo of Julie Hardman, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Julie Hardman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27607  (Online Only)
I spent years working with clients in Wake and Durham counties and still do! Are you struggling day in day out and want to see something change? I'd love to get to know you and collaborate on how you might cultivate a more fulfilling, less distressing life. I counsel women ages 21+ living with anxiety, depression, trauma, chronic pain and illness; relationship issues, work stressors, major life transitions, grief and loss, creative block, learning self advocacy. I am an ally of the LGBTQIA+ community. You can learn to flourish despite issues you may now see as impediments. Let me walk with you on this journey. Let's find your joy!
I spent years working with clients in Wake and Durham counties and still do! Are you struggling day in day out and want to see something change? I'd love to get to know you and collaborate on how you might cultivate a more fulfilling, less distressing life. I counsel women ages 21+ living with anxiety, depression, trauma, chronic pain and illness; relationship issues, work stressors, major life transitions, grief and loss, creative block, learning self advocacy. I am an ally of the LGBTQIA+ community. You can learn to flourish despite issues you may now see as impediments. Let me walk with you on this journey. Let's find your joy!
(336) 203-7986 View (336) 203-7986
Photo of Jennifer Tremblay Pettee, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer Tremblay Pettee
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Cape Carteret, NC 28584  (Online Only)
Together, we can work to reduce emotional pain and stress and instead develop an overall sense of wellness.
Overwhelmed? We can be overwhelmed by many things; work/family demands, grief, romantic relationships, health, traumatic events, and so on. Sometimes, even when we feel like we SHOULD be happy, we are not. At Bonne Journée PLLC, I take a "Big Picture" approach to help empower clients to sort out what is meaningful and helpful in their lives.
Together, we can work to reduce emotional pain and stress and instead develop an overall sense of wellness.
Overwhelmed? We can be overwhelmed by many things; work/family demands, grief, romantic relationships, health, traumatic events, and so on. Sometimes, even when we feel like we SHOULD be happy, we are not. At Bonne Journée PLLC, I take a "Big Picture" approach to help empower clients to sort out what is meaningful and helpful in their lives.
(252) 542-2160 View (252) 542-2160
Photo of Gisela Weimer, MA, LCMHC, Counselor
Gisela Weimer
Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27615  (Online Only)
I use only evidence-based treatments that are supported by research such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Pain Reprocessing Therapy (PRT), and Clinical Hypnosis to ensure the best results quickly.
I work with motivated individuals seeking relief from chronic pain as well as reduced stress and anxiety in their personal lives or at work. Chronic pain conditions that I treat include but are not limited to neck and back pain, headaches, pelvic pain, IBS, tinnitus, and fibromyalgia.
I use only evidence-based treatments that are supported by research such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Pain Reprocessing Therapy (PRT), and Clinical Hypnosis to ensure the best results quickly.
I work with motivated individuals seeking relief from chronic pain as well as reduced stress and anxiety in their personal lives or at work. Chronic pain conditions that I treat include but are not limited to neck and back pain, headaches, pelvic pain, IBS, tinnitus, and fibromyalgia.
(919) 551-6904 View (919) 551-6904
Photo of Trinity Perini, MSW, LCSWA
Trinity Perini
LCSW Associate, MSW, LCSWA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27609
Living with a chronic illness (interstitial cystitis), I’m intimately aware of the toll it takes on the body, mind, and spirit— how it’s woven into the fabric of all aspects of living, how it has a tendency to keep us tethered to fear, hopelessness, and isolation. I believe in validating the reality of what is chronic and pervasive. I also believe it is possible to soften the grasp these diagnoses have on our lives. As a woman, I’m passionate about supporting those with conditions that are far too often invalidated and overlooked, such as IC, ENDO, & PCOS. Building community and connection offers something solid to be tethered to.
Living with a chronic illness (interstitial cystitis), I’m intimately aware of the toll it takes on the body, mind, and spirit— how it’s woven into the fabric of all aspects of living, how it has a tendency to keep us tethered to fear, hopelessness, and isolation. I believe in validating the reality of what is chronic and pervasive. I also believe it is possible to soften the grasp these diagnoses have on our lives. As a woman, I’m passionate about supporting those with conditions that are far too often invalidated and overlooked, such as IC, ENDO, & PCOS. Building community and connection offers something solid to be tethered to.
(984) 202-8630 View (984) 202-8630
Photo of Mandy Tewell, MS, CRC, LCMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mandy Tewell
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, CRC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Durham, NC 27705
Waitlist for new clients
Things are hard right now. You're here because you want things to be different and don't quite know how to make that happen. I want to help you feel hopeful, powerful, and in control of your life. I want to help you heal. Whether you're feeling pain from trauma/abuse, engaging in behaviors that are no longer working for your life (self-harming, risky behaviors, disordered eating), or struggling with relationships, I can help. I have a person-centered approach so I can meet you at your current point in life and support you in reaching your goals.
Things are hard right now. You're here because you want things to be different and don't quite know how to make that happen. I want to help you feel hopeful, powerful, and in control of your life. I want to help you heal. Whether you're feeling pain from trauma/abuse, engaging in behaviors that are no longer working for your life (self-harming, risky behaviors, disordered eating), or struggling with relationships, I can help. I have a person-centered approach so I can meet you at your current point in life and support you in reaching your goals.
(919) 237-9699 View (919) 237-9699
Photo of Robert Heller - Cognitive Behavior Therapy: Dr. Robert Heller, EdD, ABPP, Psychologist
Cognitive Behavior Therapy: Dr. Robert Heller
Psychologist, EdD, ABPP
Verified Verified
Durham, NC 27703  (Online Only)
Hypnosis can be very useful with improving self esteem, sleep, motivation, concentration and managing pain.
Suffering from anxiety, depression, anger, fear, or worry? Problems with relationships? Seeking relief from chronic health issues? With over 40 years of clinical experience with hundreds of clients and advanced training with some of the world's top leaders in Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Hypnosis and EMDR, I can provide you with tools and skills you can use NOW to overcome life's toughest challenges so you can lead a healthier, happier and more satisfying life. Call Dr. Robert Heller at 561-251-9768 for a FREE 15 minute phone consultation, email drrobertheller at gmail.com or visit www.cognitivetherapyfl.com. Licensed in FL, MA, NC
Hypnosis can be very useful with improving self esteem, sleep, motivation, concentration and managing pain.
Suffering from anxiety, depression, anger, fear, or worry? Problems with relationships? Seeking relief from chronic health issues? With over 40 years of clinical experience with hundreds of clients and advanced training with some of the world's top leaders in Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Hypnosis and EMDR, I can provide you with tools and skills you can use NOW to overcome life's toughest challenges so you can lead a healthier, happier and more satisfying life. Call Dr. Robert Heller at 561-251-9768 for a FREE 15 minute phone consultation, email drrobertheller at gmail.com or visit www.cognitivetherapyfl.com. Licensed in FL, MA, NC
(561) 287-6059 View (561) 287-6059
Photo of Rachel Macko, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rachel Macko
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Fuquay Varina, NC 27526
I am most passionate about providing a safe space for courageous individuals like you to explore thoughts and feelings that might leave you feeling depleted, overwhelmed, isolated or fearful. Together, we will engage your strengths and apply tools you can use in your everyday life to address what is causing you daily pain or tension. Relief is possible! I work with adults on an individual basis to address concerns such as depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, relationship concerns, mood swings or various life transitions.
I am most passionate about providing a safe space for courageous individuals like you to explore thoughts and feelings that might leave you feeling depleted, overwhelmed, isolated or fearful. Together, we will engage your strengths and apply tools you can use in your everyday life to address what is causing you daily pain or tension. Relief is possible! I work with adults on an individual basis to address concerns such as depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, relationship concerns, mood swings or various life transitions.
(919) 887-1100 View (919) 887-1100
Photo of Kristy Bastone, LCMHCA, NCC, C-AAIS, MEd, RYT-200, Counselor
Kristy Bastone
Counselor, LCMHCA, NCC, C-AAIS, MEd, RYT-200
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27615
I have been a part of the chronic pain and illness community for over a decade.
I have experience working with clients of all ages on a wide range of issues, including chronic pain and illness, anxiety, parenting, adoption, trauma, LGBTQIA+ identity, addiction, veterans concerns, and grief. I believe that counseling is a collaborative experience, where both the client and therapist decide on a way forward together.
I have been a part of the chronic pain and illness community for over a decade.
I have experience working with clients of all ages on a wide range of issues, including chronic pain and illness, anxiety, parenting, adoption, trauma, LGBTQIA+ identity, addiction, veterans concerns, and grief. I believe that counseling is a collaborative experience, where both the client and therapist decide on a way forward together.
(919) 709-3620 View (919) 709-3620
Photo of Katelyn Kivett, LCMHC
Katelyn Kivett
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27603  (Online Only)
Typically, those who are drawn to working with me have felt invalidated or unsafe when trying to explore trauma in the past, they’re navigating life after a childhood or relationship filled with toxicity or abuse, they’re feeling unfulfilled due to events or beliefs from their past, or they’re feeling like there’s no “after” of their traumatic experiences. Using EMDR and Flash processing, I’ll guide you towards relief from your pain. You deserve to wake up feeling safe and joyful. My goal is to help you create sustainable safety after abuse or trauma. Together, we’ll collaborate on your healing journey.
Typically, those who are drawn to working with me have felt invalidated or unsafe when trying to explore trauma in the past, they’re navigating life after a childhood or relationship filled with toxicity or abuse, they’re feeling unfulfilled due to events or beliefs from their past, or they’re feeling like there’s no “after” of their traumatic experiences. Using EMDR and Flash processing, I’ll guide you towards relief from your pain. You deserve to wake up feeling safe and joyful. My goal is to help you create sustainable safety after abuse or trauma. Together, we’ll collaborate on your healing journey.
(980) 350-9454 View (980) 350-9454
Photo of Jaclyn Sappah, LCSW, C-IAYT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jaclyn Sappah
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, C-IAYT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27614  (Online Only)
Are you searching for a way to feel better, to feel good enough? Maybe you are longing to love and accept yourself, to feel secure within yourself? You might realize that work, relationships, and/or overindulging in food or alcohol is not doing the trick. Dealing with ongoing family issues, sadness from loss, comparing yourself to your friends, and always putting yourself last might be overwhelming. Maybe you hope to make peace with your past traumas and be able to move forward freely. Are you drawn toward the mind-body-spirit healing approach and ready to get to the root of your trauma and emotional pain? Do you live in CA/NC/NY?
Are you searching for a way to feel better, to feel good enough? Maybe you are longing to love and accept yourself, to feel secure within yourself? You might realize that work, relationships, and/or overindulging in food or alcohol is not doing the trick. Dealing with ongoing family issues, sadness from loss, comparing yourself to your friends, and always putting yourself last might be overwhelming. Maybe you hope to make peace with your past traumas and be able to move forward freely. Are you drawn toward the mind-body-spirit healing approach and ready to get to the root of your trauma and emotional pain? Do you live in CA/NC/NY?
(336) 396-7763 View (336) 396-7763
Photo of Victoria Ardines, LCMHC-A, NCC
Victoria Ardines
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, LCMHC-A, NCC
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27615  (Online Only)
I offer a somatic and liberation trauma-informed approach tailored to the unique needs of BIPOC communities, chronic pain, chronic illnesses, and disabilities, recognizing the deep connections between mind and body in healing.
I am committed to helping clients holistically on their pain journey, recognizing that everyone experiences pain in unique ways. My approach is person-centered, focusing on meeting each individual where they are and supporting them as they navigate their next chapters. I believe in being a steadfast ally, someone who is truly in their corner, and who understands that they are the expert of their own mind and body. My goal is to empower clients to take charge of their healing process, offering compassionate guidance and understanding every step of the way.
I offer a somatic and liberation trauma-informed approach tailored to the unique needs of BIPOC communities, chronic pain, chronic illnesses, and disabilities, recognizing the deep connections between mind and body in healing.
I am committed to helping clients holistically on their pain journey, recognizing that everyone experiences pain in unique ways. My approach is person-centered, focusing on meeting each individual where they are and supporting them as they navigate their next chapters. I believe in being a steadfast ally, someone who is truly in their corner, and who understands that they are the expert of their own mind and body. My goal is to empower clients to take charge of their healing process, offering compassionate guidance and understanding every step of the way.
(984) 283-5955 View (984) 283-5955
Photo of Kathy Murray, LCSW, SEP, Somatic, NBC-HWC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kathy Murray
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, SEP, Somatic, NBC-HWC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27707  (Online Only)
As a Somatic Therapist and Licensed Health and Wellness Coach, I believe that everyone has within them an inner wisdom and inner healing power that is their natural birthright. My past role as a Behavioral Health Clinician within Duke Health and Wellbeing and Duke Diet and Fitness provided me with wide experience assisting individuals in managing a variety of behavioral and emotional concerns. This would include difficult life transitions, weight management, anxiety, depression, stress management, trauma, chronic pain and other health issues
As a Somatic Therapist and Licensed Health and Wellness Coach, I believe that everyone has within them an inner wisdom and inner healing power that is their natural birthright. My past role as a Behavioral Health Clinician within Duke Health and Wellbeing and Duke Diet and Fitness provided me with wide experience assisting individuals in managing a variety of behavioral and emotional concerns. This would include difficult life transitions, weight management, anxiety, depression, stress management, trauma, chronic pain and other health issues
(919) 276-8754 View (919) 276-8754
Photo of Dr. Anne Baker, PhD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr. Anne Baker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27701  (Online Only)
I work with adults only and specialize in treatment for chronic pain, trauma/PTSD, and anxiety. I also help with a range of other issues. I especially enjoy supporting clients who have centralized conditions (e.g., fibromyalgia, IBS) and/or autoimmune diseases alongside histories of trauma. Clients often come into therapy with me expressing a desire to more deeply understand themselves and their sense of suffering, and to let go of the burdens they carry. My job in that process is never to fix you or tell you what to do. Rather, it is to support you in discovering your own deep knowing about who you are and what you need.
I work with adults only and specialize in treatment for chronic pain, trauma/PTSD, and anxiety. I also help with a range of other issues. I especially enjoy supporting clients who have centralized conditions (e.g., fibromyalgia, IBS) and/or autoimmune diseases alongside histories of trauma. Clients often come into therapy with me expressing a desire to more deeply understand themselves and their sense of suffering, and to let go of the burdens they carry. My job in that process is never to fix you or tell you what to do. Rather, it is to support you in discovering your own deep knowing about who you are and what you need.
(919) 759-6056 View (919) 759-6056
Photo of James A Barbour, MS, LCMHCS, LCAS, CCS, CHT, Licensed Professional Counselor
James A Barbour
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LCMHCS, LCAS, CCS, CHT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Greenville, NC 27834  (Online Only)
I help people decrease symptoms of pain and improve personal performance on and off the court.
Thank you for visiting my page. I know that finding the right counselor can be a challenge and I hope you will find information on this page to help you feel more comfortable and confident in making that decision. Since 2002 I've been helping people enhance the quality of their lives through the use of sound therapeutic interventions including: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Redecision Therapy, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, Hypnotherapy, Trauma Resolution Energy Therapy, Reality Therapy and Imago Therapy. I am a perpetual student of personal and professional development and I provide education and tools in proven techniques.
I help people decrease symptoms of pain and improve personal performance on and off the court.
Thank you for visiting my page. I know that finding the right counselor can be a challenge and I hope you will find information on this page to help you feel more comfortable and confident in making that decision. Since 2002 I've been helping people enhance the quality of their lives through the use of sound therapeutic interventions including: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Redecision Therapy, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, Hypnotherapy, Trauma Resolution Energy Therapy, Reality Therapy and Imago Therapy. I am a perpetual student of personal and professional development and I provide education and tools in proven techniques.
(252) 585-5186 View (252) 585-5186

See more therapy options for Martin County

Chronic Pain Therapists

How does chronic pain therapy work?

Engaging with a psychotherapist to help treat chronic pain does not mean that one’s pain is all in their head. Therapy for chronic-pain patients has been shown to benefit both the mind and the body, targeting physical symptoms and increasing daily functioning. In other words, for many, addressing their emotional health through therapy affects their physical health. A therapist can help a client challenge unhelpful thoughts about pain and develop new ways to respond to it, such as distraction or calming breathing techniques. Studies have found that therapy can be as effective as surgery for certain cases of chronic pain and many doctors recommend trying psychotherapy in advance of considering invasive surgery.

What are the most effective treatment options for chronic pain?

Stress, anxiety, depression, catastrophizing, ruminating, lack of activity, and social withdrawal all make chronic pain worse. Addressing these issues, research shows, can help people gain control over their pain symptoms. Therapeutic approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy, biofeedback, and mindfulness-based stress reduction, along with greater pain-management education, have been found to help people reduce fear and disability.

Are there new treatments for chronic pain?

Many cases of chronic pain, particularly those involving back pain, remain medically unexplained. But there is evidence that changes in the brain or nervous system are caused by previous physical ailments such as tissue damage; in such cases, the brain may continue to send out pain signals despite the physical cause having healed. To aid patients under these circumstances, a recently developed treatment known as pain reprocessing therapy (PRT) is designed to help the brain “unlearn” this response. A PRT practitioner helps individuals to reduce the “threat value” of their ongoing pain signals until they can reappraise them as less threatening and fear-inducing. They also help an individual to develop new emotional regulation skills.

How long does therapy for chronic pain take?

There is no set timeline for recovery from chronic pain, especially as there may be a range of physical and psychological causes for any individual’s discomfort, but most patients should expect to see a therapist for a number of weeks or months, typically spanning at least 12 sessions. Studies of pain reprocessing therapy found that many individuals’ experience of pain lessened in eight sessions over four weeks.